We could go on and on about the plethora of jewelry trends that have recently caught our attention. There's now a jewelry style for every type of jewelry fashion preference in the book, from seashell-inspired pieces to classic, everyday minimalism.

Gemstone jewelry, particularly ruby jewelry, is exactly what you'll want if you're looking for a trend that will work for every day and stand out from your daintier pieces.

Though there was a clear shift away from colourful gemstones like rubies in favor of diamonds and simpler metal pieces over the last decade, we've noticed a renewed interest in the gemstone trend and an official return to it.

Birthstones such as ruby, sapphire, and opal were popular in the 1990s and early 2000s and now ruby jewelry is very much back in vogue. And, let's face it, who doesn't appreciate even the tiniest hint of personalization, even if it's just your birth month? This time, the trend appears to be in response to the popularity of minimalist and sculptural pieces, which add a unique touch to any outfit but may not always help the wearer stand out.

a gemologist examines a ruby

a gemologist examines a ruby

The Allure of Ruby Jewelry

People have loved and appreciated the ruby - and ruby jewelry - for millennia, and for many reasons. Some of them are purely based on a ruby's visual appeal. Rubies are dull, greasy-looking stones in their natural state. However, when cut and polished, their high luster shines like diamonds, and their rich red colour is pleochroic. A pleochroic colour is one that changes depending on how you look at it and what light it is seen in.

The depth of the red in a ruby will change from stone to stone, and no two are truly alike. This individuality and chameleon like colour changing property are good enough reasons alone for many to choose rube jewelry, and while it's 'officially' the birthstone of Cancers almost anyone can wear ruby jewelry well, as it compliments all skin stones and is dark enough in most cases to appeal to both sexes as well.

Ruby

Ruby

Ruby Jewelry Meanings

Even if very little of the information is based on anything more than legend and myth, and certainly rarely on science, people love to learn about the 'meanings' of gemstones, and those too can influence their jewelry choices (even if they don't always admit that.)

Ruby jewelry has long been associated with romantic love. In a romantic relationship, it is said to inspire devotion and faithfulness. In fact, in the 1800s, French jewelers referred to rubies as the "dearly loved stone." Some say the fiery red color and glimmer can make the wearer feel sensual.

Aside from its romantic connotations, the ruby is a lovely, versatile stone that can be worn by anyone. It is said to encourage self-care in the wearer and give them the confidence to take on any challenge. Anxiety and self-doubt are also said to be reduced by rubies. The ruby is a stone that inspires the wearer to live fully and accept whatever comes their way. It gives the wearer the ability to see their own strength and potential through the eyes of their own heart.

Ruby jewelry is a popular anniversary gift for couples celebrating their 15th or 40th wedding anniversary, but it's almost universally welcomed as a gift at any time, whether it is set in a ring, a necklace, earrings or a bracelet. Check out Asteria's current collection of fine ruby jewelry here.